Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Family

Unveiling Urbino's Secrets: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of uncovering Urbino's hidden corners, a blend of historical intrigue and simple pleasures that only a Renaissance town can offer. Mei-Ling, Lin, and I set out with no strict agenda, just a desire to absorb the atmosphere and see where the day would lead us. As an orchard manager from Kelowna, I appreciate the unhurried pace of life here, a stark contrast to the demands of managing fruit harvests back home. It’s these moments, wandering without purpose, that allow me to truly connect with a place.

Our morning began, as most mornings should, with a delightful breakfast at Cafe’ Trentatre’. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of pastries. I opted for a classic cappuccino and a cornetto, while Mei-Ling enjoyed a latte and Lin, a spremuta d’arancia. The cafe's cozy atmosphere was the perfect start to our day, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for an entire day of exploration.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Cafe’ Trentatre’, a must-visit bar in the heart of Urbino, Italy.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we decided to seek out the Scalinata del pozzo della polenta. I had read about this staircase, also known as Piaggia di Corinaldo, and its intriguing history. Though it is not in Urbino but in Corinaldo, we were intrigued by the stories surrounding it. The Scalinata del pozzo della polenta is one of the most famous staircases in the Marche region. The traditional brick houses overlooking the staircase and the picturesque alleyways branching off from it give off a medieval soul of the village. According to the legend, a man carrying a sack of flour on his shoulders rested on the staircase, and the flour fell into the well. When he went down to retrieve it, he never came back, leading the villagers to joke that he was making polenta in the well.


Explore the enchanting Scalinata del Pozzo della Polenta, a historical staircase in Corinaldo, Italy, offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences.

Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the ones you don't plan; they simply unfold as you wander and allow yourself to be open to the unexpected.

After the Scalinata, we set out to find the Arco di Fondarca. The drive itself was an adventure, with narrow, winding roads offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The Arco di Fondarca is located on Monte Nerone in the province of Pesaro-Urbino. We parked in Pieia, a small village of the municipality of Cagli, and followed the signs for the trail. The walk to the arch was relatively short, about 20 minutes, but the path was rocky. As we walked along the path, we admired the beautiful views of the surrounding peaks, ridges, and karst formations. The landscape was wild and unspoiled. The arch itself was impressive, a natural rock formation that has been shaped by erosion over centuries.


Explore the breathtaking Arco di Fondarca in the Province of Pesaro and Urbino, a stunning hiking area perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Lin was particularly fascinated by the Grotta delle Nottole, a cave near the arch where archaeological finds were discovered. The cave is also home to a large number of bats. The Arco di Fondarca was once the entrance to a large cave, but the roof collapsed a long time ago. Today, it is a natural amphitheater made of rock.

After our morning excursions, our appetites led us to Ristorante Antica Osteria Da La Stella for lunch. This restaurant is steeped in history, once a meeting place for artists and lords during the Duchy of Urbino. Painters like Piero della Francesca and Raphael Sanzio frequented the inn. The atmosphere was charming, with a touch of Renaissance elegance. We savored traditional dishes from the Marche region, made with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the *crescia*, a local flatbread, while Mei-Ling enjoyed *passatelli* in broth, and Lin devoured a plate of *tagliatelle al ragu*. The meal was a delightful culinary journey, connecting us to the region’s rich heritage.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Urbino at Ristorante Antica Osteria Da La Stella, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we wandered through Urbino’s charming streets, eventually stumbling upon Antonio, a local shop. Although I could not find detailed information about the shop, I surmise that it is a shop that sells local products. We purchased some souvenirs and local delicacies. Supporting local businesses is important to me, as it helps preserve the unique character of these towns. It reminded me of the farmers' markets back in Kelowna, where we champion local produce and crafts.


Explore the essence of Urbino at Antonio, where local craftsmanship meets a charming shopping experience.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante Vecchia Urbino for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting. I ordered the *pappardelle al cinghiale*, a hearty pasta dish with wild boar sauce, while Mei-Ling chose the *baccala alla griglia*, grilled cod. Lin enjoyed a simple yet delicious *pizza margherita*. The service was prompt and friendly, and the prices were reasonable. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Vecchia Urbino in the heart of Italy's historic city, where tradition meets flavor.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Teatro Comunale D. Bramante and the Chiesa di San Bernardino. I am particularly excited about the theater, as I have a keen interest in modern architecture. We might also stop by Fuoritema, a local bar, for an evening drink. It’s always a pleasure to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Reflecting on today, I realize that the true essence of travel lies not in ticking off famous landmarks, but in immersing oneself in the local culture and discovering hidden gems. Urbino has a way of drawing you in, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s a place where history, art, and culinary delights intertwine, creating an unforgettable experience. As we return to Hotel Raffaello, I feel grateful for another day of shared memories with my family, cherishing these moments as we continue our exploration of Italy. I am also grateful that I did not forget my travel adapter, which is one of my trip essentials. However, I wish I had brought my portable charger and sunglasses.


Discover the charm of Urbino at Hotel Raffaello, where comfort meets convenience in a centrally located haven for travelers and tourists.

With each passing day, I am reminded of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and connecting with the world around us. Urbino, with its Renaissance charm and hidden treasures, has certainly captured a piece of my heart. Perhaps it's the blend of history and the slow pace of life, or maybe it's the joy of sharing these experiences with my family. Whatever the reason, I am grateful for this journey and the opportunity to explore such a remarkable place.